Vegetable Farmers After the Derecho – Ann Franzenburg

Many Iowans have seen images of crumpled grain bins and vast corn fields flattened by the powerful derecho that struck Iowa on Aug. 10. But vegetable farmers were just as devastated by the storm, as its powerful winds – equal in places to a Category 1 or Category 2 hurricane – pummeled high tunnels, shredded high-value specialty crops and damaged critical farm infrastructure, like packing sheds and walk-in coolers.

Ann Franzenburg of Pheasant Run Farm, Iowa near Van Horne, Iowa shares her story of the derecho impacting her farm. Ann discusses the loss of her high tunnels, packing shed and corn crib and what that means for her farm’s future.